A client gave birth 2 days ago and is preparing for discharge. The nurse assesses respirations to be 26 breaths/min and labored, and the client complains of chest pain & short of breath ambulating from the bathroom this morning. Lung sounds are clear. The nurse alerts the primary care provider and the nurse- midwife to her concern that the client may be experiencing:
pulmonary embolism.
mitral valve collapse.
upper respiratory infection.
thrombophlebitis.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Pulmonary embolism (PE): PE is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, often originating from a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Postpartum clients are at increased risk due to hypercoagulability. Symptoms include sudden-onset dyspnea, chest pain, tachypnea, tachycardia, and hypoxia despite clear lung sounds. This warrants immediate intervention.
B. Mitral valve collapse: This is not a common postpartum complication and does not explain the client’s acute symptoms.
C. Upper respiratory infection: URIs present with cough, congestion, fever, and abnormal lung sounds, which this client does not have.
D. Thrombophlebitis: This refers to localized inflammation of a superficial vein, which may cause leg pain and swelling but does not typically result in respiratory distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Correct. The priority is to assess the fundus for firmness and location. Uterine atony is a common cause of postpartum hemorrhage and requires immediate assessment and intervention.
B. Incorrect. Increased bleeding in a multiparous client should not be dismissed as normal without assessment.
C. Incorrect. Administering Pitocin may be appropriate but should follow an assessment of the fundus first.
D. Incorrect. Waiting an hour without assessing the fundus could delay necessary interventions for postpartum hemorrhage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. She may have outbursts of anger: Possible but not the primary concern.
B. She may harm her infant: Correct. Postpartum depression can lead to severe thoughts of harming oneself or the baby, requiring immediate medical intervention.
C. She may lose interest in her husband: While possible, it is not the primary safety concern.
D. She may neglect her hygiene: This can occur but is not the most immediate concern compared to potential harm to the infant.
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